For Three Quick Questions, I send the same three questions to admission representatives at colleges all over the country, and then I hope to hear back from them. The three questions are meant to probe some of the things that make a school unique but that aren’t easily captured as a stat to go in a book or web search.

Today’s response is from David Cota, Senior Admissions Advisor at New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, New Mexico.

What is a course, tradition, program or event that is unique to New Mexico State University?

We are New Mexico’s land-grant institution and a comprehensive research university dedicated to teaching, research public service and outreach at all levels. NMSU is a welcoming community of talented faculty, staff and students who are working together to make a difference. We are a NASA Space Grant College, a Hispanic-serving institution (HSI), a minority-serving institution (MSI) and home to the first Honors College in New Mexico. We offer an accessible education that shapes bright futures.

One of my favorite unique traditions at New Mexico State University is the "Noche de Luminarias". During the holiday season, the university's International Mall is adorned with luminarias, traditional New Mexican paper lanterns filled with candles. The soft glow of these luminarias creates a beautiful and serene atmosphere, bringing together students, faculty, and the local community to celebrate the festive season in a memorable way.

Naturally every college wants to recruit the perfect student--high grades, high test scores, involved in their community, leadership...everything. But what kinds of imperfect students tend to flourish at NM State?

NMSU values hard work and determination, qualities that are often more important than perfect grades or test scores. Students who are willing to put in the effort to succeed, both inside and outside the classroom, are likely to flourish here. NMSU welcomes a diverse student population, including non-traditional students such as adult learners, veterans, and students with work or family commitments. Many students at NMSU are also the first in their families to attend college. These students often exhibit a strong drive to succeed and overcome obstacles, fueled by their desire to create a better future for themselves and their families. NMSU is committed to serving its local community and providing educational opportunities to students from underserved backgrounds. Students who come from economically disadvantaged or underrepresented minority backgrounds often find a supportive environment at NMSU, where they can thrive academically and personally. The university provides support services tailored to the needs of these students, allowing them to excel despite their non-traditional paths.

When people come to visit Las Cruces, what's a place off campus that you recommend they check out while they're there?

One off-campus destination I would recommend for visitors to check out while in Las Cruces is the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument. Located just a short drive from the NMSU campus, this stunning natural area offers breathtaking views, hiking trails for all skill levels, rock climbing opportunities, and opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography. Visitors can explore iconic features such as the Organ Mountains, which rise sharply from the desert floor, and enjoy outdoor activities such as picnicking, birdwatching, and stargazing. The monument is also home to archaeological sites and petroglyphs, providing insight into the region's rich cultural history. Whether visitors are nature enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, or simply looking to enjoy the beauty of the Southwest landscape, a trip to the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument is a must-see while in Las Cruces.

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Photo by Angela Elisabeth. [The banner photo is not of NMSU. I use the same photo for all Three Quick Questions posts so you can spot them easily.]